Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton on Wednesday issued almost $46,000 in relief for Freeborn County from the state’s disaster assistance contingency account in the aftermath of an EF1 tornado that left significant damage in Clarks Grove in March.

The tornado reached winds speeds of 100 to 110 mph and was on the ground for 12.3 miles. It resulted in significant tree damage and expenses for debris removal and emergency protective measures in and around Clarks Grove. Several public and private buildings were also damaged in the storm.

The tornado was marked the second earliest tornado to ever strike down in the history of the state after one in Pihls Park campground south of Wells struck down about 30 minutes prior.

A third tornado struck down in Zimmerman around the same time.

Aid from the state’s disaster assistance contingency account will reimburse the county for public infrastructure repairs and cleanup costs. Under Minnesota law, the state will reimburse 75 percent of eligible costs for public infrastructure repairs and cleanup, with localities responsible for covering the remaining 25 percent.